Health Tip: Preventing E. coli Infection

(HealthDay News) -- Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacterium that lives in the intestines of healthy people and animals, says Mayo Clinic. A few strains found in contaminated water or food can cause abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.

To help prevent E. coli infection, Mayo Clinic encourages people to:

Cook hamburgers until they're 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Drink pasteurized milk, juice and cider.

Wash raw produce thoroughly.

Wash utensils before and after contact with raw food.

Wash hands after preparing or eating food, using the toilet or changing diapers.